So in the past year, people have been asking me: “Fook, you’ve been putting quite a bit of money into photography, are you going to turn pro?” Honestly, I have thought about it for a while now, and here are some of the reasons why I believe I am not ready to turn pro.

First up, into what photographic category would I fit? Personally, I feel that most photographers can be put into 2 categories: Artsy photographers and product/event photographers.

By that, I mean photographers that shoot weddings and/or other events, and photographers like Nathan that shoot products. In my opinion, these photographers are expected to be at the top of their craft, as well as consistent in their photography. People pay these photographers to make similar photos to those done in their past, and experimentation is not always welcome.

Artsy photographers, on the other hand, are photographers who make more of their money from experimental photography. This typically means that these photographers would make most of their money from selling books, making art prints, and from educating others about their craft. Throughout the course of a his or her career, a photographer should start out strong and improve as their career progresses. This helps them connect with the client emotionally. Unlike the previous category, experimentation is welcome, but isn’t too crazy.

I would probably belong to the 2nd category with my street photography background, but I don’t believe I am able to be a professional in this regard due to several reasons. Further Friday Fooks will essay about the doubt I have about making it in the professional photography world.